Former Vice President Joe Biden continued his presidential campaign with a rally at the Los Angeles Trade Technical College located South of downtown LA on Thursday, Nov. 14. The free event was open to the public and only required a rsvp to attend.
A mariachi band kicked off the festive outside affair playing to a diverse crowd of students, staff and people from the community. Nia Smith, LATTC student leader, gave an introductory speech before Biden came to the stage.
Biden, who is known for the mantra “we are in a battle for the soul of America”, laid out his vision for the country. Biden’s overall vision for America includes rebuilding the backbone of the middle class, implementing an inclusive political democracy and restoring strong leadership in the military and political arenas.
The Democratic presidential nominee’s running themes of the night included increasing federal support for community colleges, streamlining student loan forgiveness programs and giving students free education.
Biden, 76, addressed the recent shooting that occurred at a high school in Santa Clarita, CA earlier on Thursday.
“I’m so tired of people sending prayers,” Biden said. “I’m so sick and tired of the cowardness that I see on display in Washington.”
Biden proclaimed that he would go after the National Rifle Association and pursue stricter gun control laws. He also addressed racism and bigotry from the Trump Administration, the climate crisis and the fact that the middle class is slowing fading.
When he talked about why he should be the next president, a person in the crowd said “because of your taxes.” The crowd bursted out in laughter. Biden responded, “I’m the only presidential candidate to release my tax returns to the public, all 21 years.”
Biden will be traveling to Las Vegas, NV on Saturday and Elko, NV on Sunday to host more campaign rallies.
